Dental unilateral bite block

ABSTRACT

A sheet of material having a central body portion with attached wings capable of folding towards each other on either side. The wings of the bite block fold toward each other along fold lines adjacent the central body portion and provide a structure for biting down upon for propping the mouth of a patient open during a dental procedure. A mirrored surface may be placed on the central body portion for improving visibility in the mouth. In a unilateral bite block embodiment, the unilateral bite block is placed in only one side of the mouth. The bite block may be made inexpensively and is disposable.

RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation in part of application Ser. No.12/592,451 filed Nov. 25, 2009, which claims the benefit of ProvisionalApplication No. 61/118,358 filed Nov. 26, 2008

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates in general, to dental appliances, and, inparticular, to mouth props, also known as bite blocks, to keep the mouthopen during dental procedures, and more particularly to a unilateralbite block used in working on a quadrant of a patients mouth.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Dental mouth props, or bite blocks, are devices which are inserted intothe patient's mouth between the upper and lower teeth to keep the mouthopened in a relatively fixed position. This allows access to theinterior of the mouth for dental procedures including but not limited tosuch aspects of dental treatment as phophys, endo, ortho, perio andrestorative work.

Bite blocks provide for more efficiency and ease of performance by thedental professional as they provide the dental professional with somemeasure of control over the size of the opening of the mouth. Biteblocks provide comfort to the typical patient as they can relax themuscles in the jaw as they rest their teeth on the block. This isparticularly beneficial in longer duration dental procedures.

A bit block is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,179,815 entitled “DentalDevice” and issuing to Hoffman on Dec. 25, 1979. Therein disclosed is adental device having a body, bite block portions, and a tongue shieldrestricting movement of the tongue towards the lingual surface of theteeth.

Another dental device is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,511,329 entitled“Moisture Controlling Lingual Dental Mirror” and issuing to Diamond onApr. 16, 1985. Therein disclosed is a tongue holder and support for acheck retractor that provides moisture control and has a mirror forviewing the lingual surface of the lower dentition.

Another dental device is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,267,591 entitled“Dental Prop, Throat Dam and Retractor” and issuing to Barstow on Jul.31, 2001. Therein disclosed is a tongue retracting surface, a throat damand an integral lip retracting surface with a grip portion. A propportion has angled biting surfaces adapted to engage the teeth. Areflective material is attached to the tongue retracting surface.

While these prior dental devices have performed their intended functionin aiding dental procedures, they are relatively large and expensive tomanufacture. Additionally, they have to be sterilized between patientsto prevent the possibility of cross contamination. Therefore, there is aneed for a simple inexpensive bite block that provides improvedvisibility within the confines of a patient's mouth.

Additionally, there is a need for a smaller bite block that could beeasily placed in the mouth when only a section or quadrant of the mouthis being worked on.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention comprises a dental bite block for use in dentalprocedures and in general medical or cosmetic procedures that requireaccess to the interior of a subject's or patient's mouth. The bite blockprovides a comfortable prop for the patient to rest his teeth upon, withthe mouth in an open position. In a preferred embodiment, a bite blockcomprises a symmetrical body portion having flexible wings on eitherside with increasing width extending from the body portion. The biteblock may be made of a composite or structured material having a mirrorfinish on one surface, a foam core, and a smooth white paper on theopposing surface. Fold lines may be scored adjacent the body portion forangling the flexible wings to fit a patient's mouth.

Other embodiments of the bite block comprise a symmetrical structurewith a center body portion capable of retracting the tongue, where thecenter body portion tapers into two symmetrical saddles that allow theresting of the upper and lower row of teeth upon the saddles.

Embodiments additionally comprise wings attached to the saddles whereinthe wings can be flexible to provide adjustment. The patient can alsobite into the junction of the saddle and its wings.

Additional embodiments comprise reflective or mirrored surfaces on thecenter body portion which provide a dental professional with a view ofthe interior, lingual, or back side of teeth and gums as well asincreased illumination. Illumination can be provided for by reflectionof ambient light, light directed into the mouth, or from light sourcesattached to the bite block.

Further embodiments comprise an absorptive material capable of removingsaliva from the interior cavity of the mouth. Additionally, embodimentscomprise suction devices that, when connected to air vacuum systemstypically found in dental offices, can provide suction for the removalof amounts of saliva, blood, and other residual fluids and particulatesthat may accumulate in the mouth during a dental procedure.

Additional embodiments can comprise any of the following structures. Adental apparatus described herein where the mouth props are bilateral,enabling quick and easy placement. A dental apparatus described hereinwhere the mouth props are thin, allowing for more working room in themouth. A dental apparatus described herein where the bilateral mouthprops complement each other, resulting in stability. A dental apparatusincorporating bilateral bite blocks that distribute muscle stress evenlyto both sides of the mouth. A dental apparatus described herein thatsupports a mirror of glass, plastic based, or stainless steel that showsthe lingual surfaces of the maxillary or mandibular anterior teeth. Adental apparatus supporting a mirror that can be angled, both verticallyand horizontally, so as to show the lingual surfaces of many teeth inthe mouth, maxillary and mandibular, anterior and posterior. A dentalapparatus as described above, whose mirror can illuminate the teeth andareas of the mouth mentioned above. A dental apparatus described asabove whose mirror is shaped, whereby the lower part of the mirrorextends in length down from the center of the mirror, allowing morevision of the lower or mandibular teeth and allowing the operator toinvert the entire device when vision of the lingual services of theupper or maxillary teeth is desirable. A dental apparatus having amirror when made of a plastic material, it can be coated with ananti-fogging surface. A dental apparatus as described above that anchorsboth a regular mirror on one side and a magnifying mirror on the otherside. A dental apparatus may have a body with an incorporated orattached illumination source. A dental apparatus as described above thataffords a method of tongue retraction. A dental apparatus as describedabove that decreases the amount of moisture in the anterior floor of themouth through its tongue retracting ability. A dental apparatus asdescribed above which increases the amount of work area behind themaxillary or mandibular anterior teeth by in tongue retracting ability.A dental apparatus as described above which has wings attached whichfacilitate the placement of the device and prevent its being swallowed.A device as described above that has wings attached that provideintraoral cheek retraction. A device as described above that has wingsthat provide lip retraction.

In another embodiment of the invention a unilateral bite block isspecifically adapted for working on a portion or quadrant of the mouth.In this embodiment a curved or rounded symmetrical shape is used incombination with a body portion having a dimension slightly wider thanthe width of a tooth. The bite block in this embodiment is placed in oneside of the patents mouth.

It is an object of the present invention to improve visibility in themouth during a dental procedure.

It is another object of the present invention to provide tongueretraction.

It is yet a further object of the present invention to provide aninexpensive disposable device.

It is yet a further object of an embodiment of the present invention toprovide a unilateral bite block that isolates only one half of the mouthwhen only a quadrant of the mouth is being worked on.

It is an advantage of the present invention that the wings areadjustable to accommodate different size mouths.

It is an advantage of the present invention that it may be placed in themouth independent of orientation.

It is yet a further advantage of an embodiment of the present inventionthat a unilateral bite block may be placed further back or posteriorlyin the mouth.

It is a feature of the present invention that it is symmetrical in boththe longitudinal axis and the lateral axis.

It is a feature of the present invention that a mirror or highlyreflective surface is used on one side.

It is another feature of the present invention that it has flexiblewings.

It is yet another feature of the present invention that it has acomposite structure with a foam core.

It is yet another feature of an embodiment of the present invention thata unilateral bite block has a body portion with a width only slightlylarger than the width of a tooth.

These and other objects, advantages, and features will become morereadily apparent in view of the following more detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a front schematic view illustrating placement of anembodiment of the present invention in a patient's mouth.

FIG. 1B is a cross sectional view taken along line 1B-1B in FIG. 1Aillustrating placement of the present invention in a patient's mouth.

FIG. 2A is a back plan view of the present invention in a flat unfoldedstate.

FIG. 2B is a front plan view of the present invention in a flat unfoldedstate.

FIG. 2C is a cross section taken along line 2C-2C in FIG. 2B.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 4A-D are top plan views of different wing configurations.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 6 is a schematic view illustrating a wing portion having a convexsurface of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a schematic view illustrating a wing portion having a concavesurface of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a schematic view illustrating a wing portion having bifurcatedarms of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a schematic view illustrating a wing portion having a partialcushion material of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a schematic view illustrating a wing portion having anadjustable width of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a schematic view illustrating a wing portion having amultiple cut portion for biting of an embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 12 is a schematic view illustrating a wing portion having acushioned portion for biting of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a schematic view illustrating a body portion having a vacuumline attached of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a schematic view illustrating a body portion having a cottonroll attached of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a schematic view illustrating a body portion having an armfor attaching a cotton roll of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a schematic view illustrating an arm portion having indentsfor receiving a cotton roll of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a schematic view illustrating another embodiment of thepresent invention having an opening formed in the body portion andadapted to be placed on the retro molar pads in the mouth.

FIG. 18 is a schematic view illustrating another embodiment of thepresent invention adapted to be placed on the retro molar pads deep inthe mouth.

FIG. 19A is a front schematic view illustrating placement of aunilateral bite block embodiment of the present invention in a patient'smouth.

FIG. 19B is a cross sectional view taken along line 19B-19B in FIG. 19Aillustrating placement of the unilateral bite block embodiment of thepresent invention in a patient's mouth.

FIG. 20A is a front plan view of a unilateral bite block embodiment ofthe present invention in a flat unfolded state.

FIG. 20B is a back plan view of a unilateral bite block embodiment ofthe present invention in a flat unfolded state.

FIG. 20C is a top plan view of a unilateral bite block embodiment of thepresent invention in a flat unfolded state.

FIG. 20D is a perspective view of a unilateral bite block embodiment ofthe present invention.

FIG. 20E is a perspective view of a unilateral bite block embodiment ofthe present invention with the wings folded.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of another unilateral bite blockembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of yet another unilateral bite blockembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 23A is a front plan view of another unilateral bite blockembodiment of the present invention in a flat unfolded state.

FIG. 23B is a back plan view of another unilateral bite block embodimentof the present invention in a flat unfolded state.

FIG. 23C is a top plan view of another unilateral bite block embodimentof the present invention in a flat unfolded state.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Providing a means to maintain a fairly consistent opening of the mouthcan be of benefit to dental and medical professionals while performingvarious dental and oral procedures, hereinafter generally called dentalprocedures. The natural response of the patient is to want to close themouth, as protracted sessions with an open mouth can become tiring andcause fatigue to the related muscles of the jaw.

Provided for herein is an apparatus and means for maintaining a relativeconsistent opening of the mouth while reducing fatigue to the patient.Additionally, tongue retraction can be had, as well as removal of excessfluids such as saliva. Further, a mirrored surface can be used as wellwhich provide for a view of interior portions of teeth, gums, and thegeneral mouth.

FIG. 1A illustrates a front view of an embodiment of the presentinvention placed in the mouth of a patient. A bite block 10 has isplaced in the mouth 12 for holding the teeth 14 and keeping the mouth 12open. The bite block 10 has a center body portion 16 and wings 18extending from either side of the body portion 16. The teeth 14 areblocked open by the wings 18. The wings 18 may be angularly disposedrelative to the plane of the body portion 16. The body portion 16 andwings 18 may have a mirror or highly reflective surface thereon toimprove visibility and imaging of the back of the front teeth or thelingual area.

FIG. 1B illustrates a cross of an embodiment of the present inventionplaced in the mouth of a patient. The wings 18 are angled together so asto protect the patient's cheek and provide an isolated work area for thedental practitioner. The teeth 14 are separated by a portion of thewings 18 adjacent the body portion 16. The tongue 15 is retracted in therear of the mouth in back of the body portion 16 preventing interferenceduring the dental procedure.

FIGS. 2A to 2C more clearly illustrate the shape and construction of anembodiment of the bite block 10 of the present invention. The bite block10 in FIGS. 2A and 2B is illustrated in a flat or unfolded state. Thebite block 10 comprises a composite sheet material having a generallyrectangular center body portion 16 with opposing wings 18 attached tolateral sides of the generally rectangular center body portion 16.Adjacent the lateral sides are fold lines or scores 20. The wings 18 maybe folded towards each other along the scores 20.

FIG. 2A illustrates the rear or back portion of the bite block 10. Thewings 18 have an increasing lateral dimension or width extending to endedges 22 forming angled side edges 24.

FIG. 2B illustrates the front portion of the bite block 10 having areflective or mirrored surface 26 on the body portion 16 and wings 18.The surface 26 may be a reflective white surface or an imaging mirroredsurface. Preferably the surface is an imaging mirrored surface andprovides a high quality image of the teeth as illustrated in FIG. 1A.

FIG. 2C is a cross section taken along line 2C-2C in FIG. 2A. FIG. 2Cillustrates the composite structure of the bite block 10. A foam core 28has a paper backing 30 on one side. On the other side is a highlyreflective thin film material 26 used to form an image. This compositestructure provides a strong inexpensive bite block 10.

Another embodiment is show in FIG. 3. The device comprises a center bodysection 16′ with two symmetrical saddles 32 on either side. The centerbody section 16′ is disposed inside the mouth in the tongue region.Typically it can be placed from the mandibular first molar/secondbicuspid area on one side of the mouth to the corresponding area on theother side of the mouth. The angle of placement with respect to themouth opening, in all axes, can be adjusted depending on the accessneeded by the dental professional. The saddles 32 are placed so that onesaddle 32 is on the left side of the open mouth and one on the rightside of the open mouth. The upper and lower rows of teeth on one sidewill then bite down upon the top and bottom side of the saddle 32respectively. The same is true for the opposite side of the mouth.Extending at an angle from the saddles 32 are wings 18′ bent along score20′. The body portion 16′ has a top body portion 34 and a bottom bodyportion 36, which need not be symmetrical depending upon theapplication.

The general shape of an embodiment is shown in FIG. 3. The dimensions ofthe bite block 10 a can generally be those needed to accommodateplacement in the mouth and thus can conform to general human, or animalanatomy. Embodiments can be sized to fit various human mouth sizes, suchas for children, adults, males, females, large, medium, small, etc. Thepositioning of or location of different fold lines or scores may providesize adjustable embodiments. The general shape of an embodiment can havethe top or roof of the center body taper down to the saddle 32 on eachside and correspondingly the bottom or floor taper up to the saddle 32on each side. Embodiments can be made all from one material as acontinuous piece of material or from several different materials. Edgescan be square or rounded to provide for comfort. The taper angles fromthe center body 16′ to the saddles 32 can be 90 degrees or some anglethat provides for difference in height from the body to the saddle.

Typical dimensions for an embodiment may range from approximately atotal length of 24 mm, width or height of 40 mm with a body portion ofbetween 24 mm and 37 mm. Other ranges as suitable for use in a mouth canalso be used. Thickness may vary between 0.60 mm to 4 mm depending onthe rigidity and strength of the material used.

Materials used to construct embodiments can be from suitablebiocompatible materials generally known for use in the mouth. Suchmaterials can be, but are not limited to, plastics, cloth, poster boardand/or other paper based products, canvas board, foam board, laminates,adhesives, metals such as stainless steel, aluminum, copper and othermetals suitable for use in the mouth, and various combinations of all ofthe above listed materials. The materials can be chosen so embodimentsare disposable. Alternatively materials can be chosen so thatembodiments or parts thereof are able to be sterilized and re-used.

FIGS. 4A to 4D illustrate different shaped or angled wings. Body portion16 may have obtusely angled wings 18 a, bend end wings 18 b, bentperpendicular wings 18 c, or bent back wings 18 d. The wings may be bentin a variety of shapes depending upon the application and need.

FIG. 5 illustrates another embodiment of a bite block 10 b. In FIG. 5 acushion 38 is illustrated placed around the perimeter or edges of thebite block 10 b, including the body portion 16′, wings 18, and saddles32. The cushion 38 provides additional comfort to the patient andprevents chaffing. The cushion 38 may be made of any soft material, suchas foam, cotton, or other equivalent material. The saddles can becovered in a compressive material or some type of cushioning coveringsuch as foam, cork, cloth, paper, or rubber, to provide comfort to thepatient.

Generally the dimensions of the wings are constrained only by the sizeof the patient's mouth. The wings can be flexible and if so, areattached in a way that allows them to be positioned at certain anglesthat provide for retraction to some degree of the upper and lower cheeksand lips.

FIGS. 6 to 9 illustrate different shapes for the wings. The wings can bestraight or tapered or increasing in width. The wings can be wrapped orotherwise encased or partially encased in a compressible or other softmaterial such as rubber, cork, paper, or foam to make the wing morecomfortable or to protect the tissue coming in contact with the wingsuch as the lips.

FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate the wings 18 e and 18 f attached to bodyportion 16′ rolled over on themselves to some degree to provide arounded edge. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the wing 18 e may be concave inshape to catch and retract the upper and lower lips. As illustrated inFIG. 7, the wing 18 f may be convex in shape.

FIG. 8 illustrates the ends of the wings 18 g, the end opposite of theattachment point to the saddle, can be hollowed out or otherwisemanufactured in a generally semi-circular or crescent shape to provideretraction arms 40 for retraction or holding of the upper and lowerlips. The crescent shaped or semicircular parts can in certainembodiments be attachable or removable to the proximal ends of the wingsto better fit the lips and retract them.

FIG. 9 illustrates the end of the arms 18 h having a portion covered ina cushion material 38 a. The cushion material 38 a can be foam, cork,rubber or other equivalent material and protects the lips and is morecomfortable.

FIGS. 10 to 12 illustrate other embodiments having different types ofsaddles to provide adjustability or comfort. FIG. 10 illustrates a bodyportion 16′ having a saddle portion 32 a with a bite adjusting score 42and a saddle cuts 44. Arm 18 i is attached to the saddle portion 32 a.The combination of the bite adjusting score 42 and the saddle cuts 44permit the top portion of the saddle portion 32 a to be bent over alongthe bite adjusting score 42. This provides a bite adjusting featurepermitting adjustment of the distance between teeth depending upon theneed.

FIG. 11 illustrates another embodiment providing cushioning. Attached tobody portion 16′ is a saddle portion 32 b having a plurality of closecut fissures or cuts 46 formed in the top and bottom portions of thesaddle portion 32 b. Arm 18 j is attached to saddle portion 32 b. Theclose cut fissures or cuts 46 provide some give or compliance uponbiting down providing a more comfortable bite block. Accordingly, thesaddle 32 b can be adjustable whereby the top and bottom of the saddle32 b, the top corresponding to the roof of the center body and thebottom corresponding to the floor of the center body, can be folded orotherwise rolled or bent to adjust the interocclusal or biting distance.This adjust can be made by the dental professional. Additionally, thepatient can occlude or bite down into the saddle area and across thejoint connecting the saddle and a wing, thus providing for a range ofmouth sizes.

FIG. 12 illustrates a saddle portion 32 c having a cushion 38 b placedthereon. The saddle portion 32 c is between the body portion 16′ and thewing 18 k. The cushion 38 b provides additional comfort to the patientupon biting down.

During certain dental procedures it is desired that saliva and otherfluids in the oral cavity such as blood or particulates from dentalprocedures be removed from the mouth. The mouth contains salivary ductsof the sub-mandibular and sub-lingual salivary glands which empty intothe area between the base of the tongue and the lower front teeth. Itmay be desirable to remove this saliva or a portion of it, while using abite block.

This unwanted amount of saliva, which can impede dental work andtreatment, can be minimized just by the retraction of the tongue. Theamount of saliva in the anterior floor of the mouth can be dictated bythe tongue touching and stimulating certain glands or receptive cellswhich in turn cause saliva to flow, as well as the retraction if thetongue mechanically constricting salivary ducts. Embodiments of thisbite block can be fitted with tubing that allows suction to be appliedinside the mouth.

FIGS. 13 to 16 illustrate different embodiments of the inventionproviding moisture control.

FIG. 13 illustrates a tube attached to the center body portion 16′ of abite block 10 c with holes or similar means to allow fluid to besuctioned out of the adjacent areas. This tubing or vacuum line 50 couldbe connected to the typical vacuum system present in a dental office.The tubing may be coiled. A non-coiled suction tube or vacuum line 50 isillustrated. The tube or vacuum line 50 is attached to a body extension48. The body portion 16′ has a partial mirrored surface 26′ and attachedwings 18′.

Additionally, saliva and other fluids or particulate removal can beaccomplished without the aid of a vacuum or suction system. FIGS. 14 to16 illustrate different embodiments using cotton rolls to controlmoisture.

FIG. 14 illustrates bite block 10 d having a cotton roll 52 attached toa body extension 48 extending from the body portion 16′ Wings 18′ extendfrom body portion 16′. The body portion 16′ and attached wings 18′ mayhave a reflective or mirror surface.

FIG. 15 illustrates bite block 10 e having a cotton roll 56 having alongitudinal bore 58 sliding onto an arm 54 attached to the body portion16′ Wings 18′ extend from body portion 16′. The body portion 16′ andattached wings 18′ may have a reflective or mirror surface.

FIG. 16 illustrates bite block 10 f having indents 60 formed adjacentbody portion 16′ and wings 18′ for receiving the outer circumference ofcotton rolls 52.

As shown in FIGS. 14-16 cotton rolls, wafers, or other absorptivematerials generally known in the art of dental procedures can beattached to the bite block, typically at the floor of the center body.Various methods can be used to hold these absorptive materials in placeincluding the use of adhesives, notches in the center body, fingers ortongs in the floor of the center body, or a retaining center arm asshown in FIG. 15 to receive a roll with a hollow interior. Further,indentions can be used as additionally shown in FIG. 16.

In the present invention, the center body of the device typicallyprovides for a tongue retraction feature due to its shape and placement.Generally, the tongue will be behind and press against the rear of thecenter body, with the center body placed between the tongue and theopening of the patient's mouth. Retracting the tongue can be useful inmany dental procedures.

However, in certain cases, for example where the operator might wish toisolate the first or second molars and the tongue cannot be retractedfar enough posteriorly for the bite block to be placed on theretro-molar pads, behind all teeth, it may be necessary to modify thebite block.

FIGS. 17 and 18 illustrate bite blocks that can accommodate placementfurther back in the patient's mouth. The embodiments illustrated inFIGS. 17 and 18 do not fully retract the tongue.

FIG. 17 illustrates bite block 10 g having a body portion 16′ with atongue opening 62 and longer wings 18′. The tongue opening 62 permit thetongue to pass through when the body portion 16′ extends further intothe mouth.

FIG. 18 illustrates another embodiment of a bite block for placementfurther back in the patient's mouth or on the retro-molar pads. Biteblock 10 h has multiple folds that permit partial tongue retraction.Body portion 216 has inside wings 218 b extending from either side. Aretro-molar portion 264 is placed between the inside wings 218 b andoutside wings 218 a.

While certain preferred embodiments of a bite block of the presentinvention have been illustrated and described different combinations offeatures may be incorporated in different embodiments. Certainembodiments can include a mirror or otherwise reflective surface on allor part of the center body. Typically this surface would be mounted onthe front facing portion of the center body so that when the bite blockis placed inside a patient's mouth the lingual surfaces of the maxillaryor mandibular anterior teeth and gingiva are shown via reflection to thedental professional. Use of a mirrored surface can reduce or eliminatethe need to use an additional dental mirror while performing dentalprocedures. The mirror surface can generally be used with all or almostall of the embodiments described herein. Some dental professionals,dentists, or dental hygienists out-of-habit may wish to use theirregular dental mirror in addition to the mirrored mouth prop device orbite block. This is fine as the device will reflect additionalillumination as well as provide tongue retraction and a largertongue-free working area with less moisture in addition to a stableopening of the mouth.

The mirrored surface can be made of materials which generally have areflective quality and are biocompatible. These can be glass, regular ormagnified, polished steel, reflective polymers such as acrylics,reflective metals and other materials generally known in the art topossess reflective characteristics.

Embodiments with or without a mirror can include an illumination sourcethat provides light inside the mouth to assist the dental professionalwith viewing interior areas of the mouth. Such illumination source canbe a light emitting diode (LED) or other light sources generally knownin the art.

Generally, construction of the bite block can vary depending upon thedifferent embodiments. The construction and materials may be allplastic; plastic with a thin adhesive mirror finish; regularmanufactured mirror, typically film, about 0.2 mm thick and can beplastic; poster board or other paper product; poster board with a thinmirror film; canvas board; foam board; metals such as stainless steel,aluminum, copper, or other metals; or various combinations of all theabove. Mirrors can be regular on one side and magnified on the oppositeside. The wings can be bent to position the desired mirror to be used.

The different embodiments described herein can be used during theperformance of dental procedures requiring access to the interior of thepatient's mouth. In typical use, the patient will be instructed to placetheir tongue on the roof of the mouth and bite down gently, not as hardas you can, or some similar instruction.

While several embodiments can have tongue retraction capability,embodiments can also be manufactured with an opening for the tongue.This can allow the device to be placed more posteriorly, further back orposterior to the second molars or being placed on the retro-molar pads,without being limited to retracting the tongue. Also the bite blockcould be manufactured with a flexible “cross piece” which will permitthis further backward placement in the mouth.

Use of different embodiments can provide an anchored mirror resulting inconvenience in visibility as well as light reflection; dual mouth props;tongue retraction; cheek/lip retraction; moisture control; regular andmagnified mirror vision.

Different embodiments may be used as mouth props. Embodiments used asmouth props or bite blocks can be with or without a mirrored center bodypiece. Biting down on two supporting structures simultaneously keeps themouth open and can allow the patient to relax into the bite instead ofhaving to make a conscious effort to remain open. Embodiments of thisbilateral bite block can be placed relatively quickly and simply atonce. Also, one side braces against the opposite side for additionalstability and comfort. Embodiments of the bilateral bite block can bedisposable. Embodiments can be above or below the tongue, can or can'tretract the tongue; can be used on top of a rubber dam if needed; can beused with or without an attached mirror. Embodiments can be used foranterior endo, upper or lower. As the device is not unilateral, stresson muscles is distributed approximately evenly.

Different embodiments may be used as a tongue retractor. Embodimentsprovide for intraoral tongue retraction or fixation so the operator willnot be so encumbered by extra oral supports, and thus can utilize thebenefits of tongue retraction more freely. The use for tongue retractionalso helps to keep the lower lingual anterior area of the mouth drier.Tongue retraction can keep the tongue out of the way allowing for a muchlarger working space in the lower anterior area, lower front area of themouth. Tongue retraction embodiments of the invention are typicallycomfortable to the patient, easy to place, no real extra-oral parts tocontend with, is a much more stable, and the operator doesn't have tostand there and hold a retractor. Additionally, embodiments of theinvention do not substantially move when the patient swallows.

When the tongue is retracted, there is less flow of saliva in this area,floor of the mouth. Movement of the tongue, in the floor of the mouth,may stimulate salivary gland receptors resulting in saliva secretion.When the tongue is retracted and this movement prohibited, there can beless saliva flow. Embodiments of the invention provide, if needed, afairly stable surface for attaching suction or cotton rolls or cottonwafers to the back of the device, or extending out towards the front ofthe floor of the device. This can be helpful in the area of the sublingual salivary ducts and the submandibular salivary ducts. A softcotton roll or wafer, attached to the bottom of this device, can restdirectly on these ducts with very gentle pressure.

Embodiments of the invention also aid in visibility. Embodiments with amirror can, by having the patient open just very slightly then closing,easily tilt the mirror device up-and-down giving a good view of thelingual surfaces of either the upper of lower anterior teeth. But also,by this same method, user can tilt the mirror device from side-to-sidegiving a wider range view of the linguals of the bicuspids and also thefirst molars, maxillary and mandibular, upper and lower arches/teeth. Adoubled-sided mirror can have a regular side or unit magnification on afront or one side and a magnified side on the other side or back, orvice versa. The wings can be bent to face either direction so thateither mirror surface can be used as desired.

The mirror can be attached or otherwise affixed to the center body pieceor other components of the bite block, or can be integrally contained inthe bite block; for instance when the bite block is comprised ofmaterials that are reflective by nature and do not require the additionof a reflective surface. Mirror surfaces can also be attached to thewings themselves for additional vision or illumination. Mirrors can bemade of thin film. Mirrors can be made of plastic material or acrylicsheet, sold under the trademark Plaskolite, of about 0.060 inch or about0.080 inch or about 0.2 mm or about 1 and ½ mm.

Because the anchored mirror can have two surfaces, the mirror's frontsurface can be regular or unit magnification and the reverse magnified.The wings in this double-sided mirror device can bend forward orbackward, anteriorly or posteriorly, depending on which side of themirror is being utilized.

Embodiments with an attached mirror can be used for many dentalprocedures. For example, the invention with a mirror may be used in theplacement of lower or upper anterior lingual splints. The main purposeof a splint is to re-enforce teeth by joining them together to protectthem from becoming any looser. Splints must be adjusted to and fastenedto the teeth and are used most commonly on the lower front area, almostalways from the tongue or lingual side which can be a very difficultarea to see. Without use of the present invention, it was necessary tohold a regular dental mirror with one hand. The present invention mayalso be used for placement and cementation of lower or upper orthodonticretainers; placement of pit and fissure sealants; or packing lingualretractor cord under gingival tissue prior to taking an impression forsuch as a crown.

Tongue retraction helps keep this area dry, the mirror provides visionand illumination and the mirror also allows for the freedom of bothhands. The present invention may also be used for viewing and placingimplants and providing a good lingual view, increased illumination. Forendodontic procedures on lower or upper anterior teeth embodiments ofthe invention can provide a view of the lingual entrance as well as helpwith a dry field. Dentists usually use a rubber dam in these situationsbut embodiments of the invention can also be used with or without arubber dam in place. The present invention may also be used forplacement of endodontic posts, once regular endodontics has beencompleted. Use of the present invention may also benefit periodontalsurgery on lower or upper anterior teeth, particularly in grafting whereboth hands are needed.

For patient education an embodiment having a mirror can demonstrate tothe patient where most calculus forms and the need for flossing or othercare. The patient may then understand where most scaling will be done.The patient may also be shown in a post procedure view the result ofcalculus removal. The embodiment of the present invention having amirror aids the dental professional's vision in scaling of this loweranterior area. This is especially helpful in that eighty percent of thecalculus in the entire mouth accumulates on the lingual surface of theselower six anterior teeth. The invention also helps retract active, largemuscular tongues and helps reflect light to the area. This mirror andalso retraction of the tongue will allow the dental professional to workfrom behind and slightly to the side of the patient and, with theillumination from the mirror, the dental professional can scale theseteeth with direct vision. This will also help with the use of anultrasonic cleaner, as the dental professional will have a hand free tohold or move a suction tip around if needed.

The present invention with a mirror also helps in probing the gingivathat can be seen in the mirror. The dental professional will not have topick up the regular mouth mirror nearly as much to check and record themarkings on a probe. The dental professional can just probe and record,speeding up the recording procedure. Effort to improve this procedurewith a probe-ballpoint pen has been developed to prevent having topick-up a mirror and a pen and a probe each time after recording thepocket depth. The present invention may also be used during compositeresin polymerizing curing through reflection of a curing light into hardto get to areas with the bulky curing light tip, such as in the loweranterior lingual areas near the floor of the mouth. The mirror willallow more thoroughly curing the materials in these areas which aredifficult to access with the relatively blunt nose of the curing light,including an LED curing light.

Also different embodiments will help by keeping lips and cheeks furtherout of the way. This will aid in all the uses indicated above, but willadditionally provide intraoral cheek and lip retraction. Wings of theinvention can also be used to position or move a device and to preventit from being swallowed. Embodiments of the invention can provide lip orcheek retraction for aesthetic procedures such as placement of multipleveneers and placement of multiple orthodontic brackets and applianceswhere the mouth and its tissues must be especially open, dry, andaccessible. Embodiments of the invention can be useful in conjunctionwith dental photography including of lingual areas.

The present invention may have many other uses, such as use by thepatient at home or other locations other than a dental office inconjunction with scalers. Since the tongue surfaces of the loweranterior teeth are typically the most prevalent in accumulation ofcalculus, and cannot normally be seen by the patient, embodiments of theinvention can be of assistance. Additionally, an embodiment of theinvention can comprise an advertisement imprinted on the back or frontof the device.

FIGS. 19A-23C illustrate another embodiment of a unilateral bite blockof the present invention that is adapted to isolating only a quadrant ora portion of a patient's mouth. These embodiments are particularlyadvantageous when only a portion or quadrant of a patient's mouth isbeing worked on.

FIGS. 19A and 19B illustrate the application of this embodiment of thepresent invention. Unilateral bite block 110 is illustrated in positionin a patient's mouth 12. The quadrant or unilateral bite block 110 isplaced in position in only a portion or on one side of the patient'smouth 12. In this way one quadrant, either upper or lower, may be workedupon. One wing 118 faces a patient's cheek and the other wing 118 isplaced inside the patient's mouth to prevent the tongue 15 frominterfering with the quadrant work area. In this embodiment the bodyportion 116 has a width or dimension only slightly greater than thewidth of a person's tooth 14. This dimension of the body portion 116therefore generally ranges from between 0.25 to 1.00 inches or 0.63 to2.54 cm. The unilateral bite block 110 has a reflective or mirroredsurface 126 to improve visibility. Portions of the patient's mouth 12are then more readily visible due to the reflection 14′ of teeth 14. Thewings 118 of the unilateral bite block 110 may be folded to a desirableangle along fold lines or scores 120. This unilateral bite blockembodiment of the invention may be more easily inserted into the mouthand may be positioned so as to access molars or other posterior teeth orteeth further back in the patient's mouth.

FIGS. 20A-20D illustrate the more detailed shape of this embodiment ofthe present invention. FIG. 20A illustrates a front surface of theunilateral bite block 110 having a reflective or mirrored surface 126.The distance d between the fold or score lines 120 is relatively smallcompared to the prior embodiments and is generally slightly larger thanthe width of a tooth and will generally be approximately between 0.25 to1.00 inches or 0.63 to 2.54 cm. FIG. 20B illustrates a back surface ofthe unilateral bite block 110. The surface 130 need not be mirrored butmay be reflective or light in color. The unilateral bite block 110 issymmetrical along a lateral center line but is asymmetrical along alongitudinal center line. Lobes 118A of the wings 118 extend furtherbelow a longitudinal center line than the curved edges 118B.Accordingly, depending on the location in the mouth that is being workedupon, the unilateral bite block 110 can be positioned so that the lobes118A may provide better isolation of the tooth or area being worked on.The lobes 118A may be positioned so as to conform more closely to theinterior of the patient's mouth depending upon the quadrant being workedon.

FIG. 20C illustrates the composite structure of the unilateral biteblock 110. The structure of the unilateral bite block 110 is similar tothe structure in the prior embodiments in that one surface 126 isreflective or mirrored and the opposing surface 130 is a thin backing,preferably a paper backing but also may be a thin plastic, in which isformed the fold lines or scores 120. A foam core 128 is sandwichedbetween the reflective or mirrored surface 126 and the backing 130. Thisprovides a rigid foldable structure that provides a structuresufficiently rigid to prop a patient's mouth open that can also be maderelatively inexpensive so as to be disposable. Additionally, the backing130 or foam core 128 may be made of an absorbent material so as toabsorb excess fluids in the mouth, such as saliva or blood. Theabsorbent material may be cotton, absorbent paper or cardboard or otherabsorbent material, and may contain therein a chemical absorbing ordrying agent promoting absorption. The absorbing or drying agent may beany material having absorbing or drying properties, such as potassiumpolyacrylate, sodium polyacrylate, sodium sulfate, silica gel, magnesiumsulfate, calcium sulfate, corn starch, calcium chloride, sodiumchloride, and any other equivalent or known absorbing or drying materialor chemical desiccant.

FIG. 20E illustrates the unilateral bite block 110 with the wings 118folded along fold or score lines 120.

FIG. 21 illustrates an embodiment of the unilateral bite block having acushion or absorbent material 138 placed around the edges.

FIG. 22 illustrates another embodiment of the unilateral bite blockhaving a plurality of partial lateral cuts 146 along a center portion.The plurality of partial lateral cuts provides a cushioning effectmaking the device more comfortable to the patient. The plurality ofpartial lateral cuts 146 may also aid in conforming the edge of thedevice to the shape of the patient's tooth so as to hold the unilateralbite block in position more securely.

FIGS. 23A-23C illustrate another embodiment of the invention. In thisembodiment the unilateral bite block 310 is symmetrical along both thelateral axis and the longitudinal axis. Similar to the otherembodiments, this embodiment has a body portion 316 and wings 318 withtwo fold or score lines 320. One front surface 326 is preferablyreflective or mirrored and the other rear surface 330 is a plastic orpaper backing. This embodiment also uses a composite structure with afoam core 328 sandwiched between the front reflective or mirroredsurface 326 and the rear surface or backing 330.

It should readily be appreciated that the embodiments illustrated inFIGS. 19A-23C have the advantages indicated for the prior embodimentsbut provide the additional advantage of being more easily inserted intothe mouth and positioned further back so as to work on only a quadrantor a portion of the mouth. Therefore the unilateral bite block of thisembodiment of the invention may be more easily used and may be morecomfortable for the patient.

While the present invention has been described with respect to severalembodiments, it will be understood that various modifications may bemade without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention.

1. A unilateral bite block comprising: an initially flat readily bent flexible sheet made of a composite material having a core; an intermediate reduced lateral dimension portion relative to said initially flat readily bent flexible sheet having opposing ends formed in said initially flat readily bent flexible sheet; a flexible wing integrally attached to each of the opposing ends of said intermediate reduced lateral dimension portion formed in said initially flat readily bent flexible sheet; wherein said intermediate reduced lateral dimension portion has a longitudinal dimension slightly wider than the width of a tooth and said flexible wings are readily bent by hand about said intermediate reduced lateral dimension portion, whereby said flexible wings may be bent and said intermediate reduced lateral dimension portion placed in a position between upper and lower teeth on only one side of the mouth of a patient for propping the mouth of the patient open during a dental procedure and a cushion material placed around an edge of said initially flat readily bent flexible sheet.
 2. A unilateral bite block as in claim 1 wherein: the dimension of said intermediate reduced lateral dimension portion ranges from between 0.25 to 1.00 inches or 0.63 to 2.54 cm.
 3. A unilateral bite block as in claim 1 further comprising: a mirror placed on said intermediate reduced lateral dimension portion.
 4. A unilateral bite block as in claim 1 wherein: the core comprises a foam core.
 5. A unilateral bite block as in claim 1 further comprising: a fold line placed adjacent each of the opposing ends of said intermediate reduced lateral dimension portion, whereby said flexible wings may be bent towards each other.
 6. A unilateral bite block comprising: a flat sheet of readily bent flexible composite material having a core and a central body portion having a reduced lateral dimension relative to said flat sheet and a pair of wings, each of said pair of wings having a curved edge; a fold line placed between each of said pair of wings and said central body portion; a cushion material placed around the curved edge of each of said pair of wings; and wherein a dimension of the central body portion between said fold line placed between each of said pair of wings and said body portion is slightly wider then the width of a tooth and each of the pair of wings is readily bent about the central body portion, whereby said pair of wings may be folded towards each other and the central body portion placed in a position between upper and lower teeth on only one side of the mouth of a patient for propping the mouth of the patient open during a dental procedure.
 7. A unilateral bite block as in claim 6 wherein: the dimension of the central body portion ranges from between 0.25 to 1.00 inches or 0.63 to 2.54 cm.
 8. A unilateral bite block as in claim 6 wherein: the core of said flat sheet of readily bent flexible composite material comprises a foam core.
 9. A unilateral bite block as in claim 6 further comprising: a mirror placed on at least one surface of said flat sheet.
 10. A unilateral bite block as in claim 9 wherein: said mirror comprises a thin film mirror.
 11. A unilateral bite block as in claim 6 further comprising: an absorbent material placed along edges of said flat sheet of material.
 12. A unilateral bite block for use in a dental procedure comprising: a flat composite sheet material comprising a backing, a reflective material, and a foam core separating the backing and the reflective material, said flat composite sheet material having a central body portion having a reduced lateral dimension relative to said flat composite sheet material and a pair of adjacent wing portions, each one of the pair of adjacent wing portions integrally formed on a side of said central body portion, the central body portion and the pair of wing portions having a symmetrical shape along a lateral axis; a cushion material placed around an edge of said flat composite sheet material; at least two fold lines formed on the backing, one each of said at least two fold lines formed between the central body portion and one of the pair of adjacent wing portions; and wherein the central portion has a dimension slightly wider than the width of a tooth and each wing portion of the pair of adjacent wing portions is readily bent by hand about the central portion, whereby each one of the pair of adjacent wing portions is bent towards the central body portion and the central body portion placed in a position between upper and lower teeth on only one side of the mouth of a patient for providing isolation and improved visibility due to the reflective material.
 13. A unilateral bite block for use in a dental procedure as in claim 12 wherein: the dimension of the central body portion ranges from between 0.25 to 1.00 inches or 0.63 to 2.54 cm.
 14. A unilateral bite block for use in a dental procedure as in claim 12 wherein: the central body portion has a symmetrical shape along a longitudinal axis.
 15. A unilateral bite block for use in a dental procedure as in claim 12 wherein: the backing comprises an absorbent material.
 16. A unilateral bite block for use in a dental procedure as in claim 15 further comprising: a chemical absorbing agent contained within the absorbent material. 